No Politics as Usual

As waves of protest are observed across the North of Africa and in the Middle East, it brings us all to the awareness of large populations of people who have been struggling with the limits of autocratic governments and regimes that have maintained power by intimidation and the use of their armies to control. In similar ways the changes that came to the Soviet bloc countries in the 90’s has evolved in nations that have come to find large numbers of youth, many times professionally trained and educated, with few opportunities, crying out for new freedoms and open government.

The most important changes for any nation toward a positive future are those that find within their own capacities and resources the will to act in positive ways for the benefit of their fellow countrymen and their families. Political leaders who attempt to retain exploitive influence over the masses are likely to be perceived for who they are. Righteousness exalteth a nation. Nations that demonstrate an ethic of concern for one another in upbuilding and positive directions will have the advantage for a positive future.

Involvements in government and politics can be exciting, but also very difficult. Pray for leaders of nations and peoples of nations seeking new directions. Pray that wisdom and understanding might overcome threats of violence and chaos. Change is often difficult, but when redemptive…a great blessing.

Micah in the Old Testament shared important words: “…what does the Lord require of but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Doing justice …showing mercy…and seeking God’s will for our lives each day is an important reminder for all of us.